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Flaxseed for Babies: When and How to Introduce It

A tiny seed with a big omega-3 payoff, as long as it is ground. Whole flaxseed sails right through undigested.

When to introduce: Around 6 months
Common allergen?: No (not a common allergen)
Texture: Ground, stirred into food
Key nutrients: Omega-3 (ALA), fiber

When can babies eat flaxseed?

Flaxseed can join meals from around 6 months, but only when it is ground, since whole flaxseed passes right through undigested. Start with a small amount because of the fiber, and stir it into foods your baby already enjoys.

How to prepare flaxseed, by age

6 monthsStir a small pinch of ground flaxseed into purée, oatmeal, or yogurt.

9 months+Mix ground flaxseed into mashed foods or thick purées for a little extra.

12 months+Sprinkle ground flaxseed into oatmeal, yogurt, or batters for pancakes.

Is flaxseed safe? Choking & prep

Use ground flaxseed only. Whole flaxseed passes through undigested and can be a choking and gut issue, and the ground form is easy to stir in. Add a little water if the mix gets too thick, since flax absorbs liquid.

First time with flaxseed? Log the bite and it lands on your baby's tried-it list, dated and ready for the pediatrician.

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Nutrition

Ground flaxseed adds plant omega-3 (ALA) and fiber, which is why a small amount goes a long way at first.

Goes well with

Oatmeal · Yogurt · Banana

Storage & freezing

Keep ground flaxseed in the fridge or freezer in a sealed container, since the oils go rancid at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions

When can babies have flaxseed?

Around 6 months, as ground flaxseed stirred into food. Whole flaxseed is not useful because it passes through undigested.

Why does flaxseed have to be ground?

Whole flaxseed passes through undigested, so your baby gets none of the benefit, and it can be a choking and gut issue.

How much flaxseed should I start with?

A small pinch is plenty at first because of the fiber, then build up slowly.

Is flaxseed an allergen?

Flaxseed is not a common allergen, but as with any new food, introduce it and watch how your baby responds.

Sources

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How we write these: from widely published pediatric guidance (AAP, NIAID 2017 guidelines, the LEAP study), with sources cited on every page. Pending review by a pediatric professional.

This is general information, not medical advice, and has not been individually reviewed for your baby. Always talk to your pediatrician about your baby's diet, introducing allergens, and any reaction. In an emergency, contact emergency services.

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